Femina has been capturing the essence of the Indian woman for 58 years now, and has evolved with her over the years bringing the world to her doorstep. And now, here's your chance to get the dope on everything--from celebrities and fashion, beauty and wellness, to lifestyle and relationships--delivered directly to your inbox. Plus expert tips, polls, contests and other interactive articles and a whole lot more!

Why coconut oil should be a part of your beauty regimen

It is said that coconut oil may just be one of the most imaginative health foods on the third rock from the sun. I know a lot of people who use it as their preferred cooking oil and another set of friends who swear by its medicinal powers as it balances hormones, acts as a natural digestive, reduces cellulite, and of course, my mother still thinks that it’s the next best thing after shikakai as far as my crowning glory is concerned! So is it any wonder why a gazillion of her peers—and mine, if truth be told!—still think of the coconut tree as the ‘tree of life’?

If you still need convincing, check out the three reasons mentioned below that make my case.

Beyond skin deepPuritans say that unadulterated coconut oil ought to replace store bought moisturisers as it is a natural oil, which helps in hydrating and soothing the skin. It also helps in treating skin irritations like sunburns and chapped lips and in reducing wrinkles and age spots.

To your healthRecent studies have also shown that coconut oil helps burn fat. Did you know that you can use pure coconut oil to butter your toast? As a matter of fact, pure coconut oil contains fatty acids with a lot of medicinal properties. Moreover, it balances your blood sugar levels, increases HDL and lowers LDL cholesterol.

Hair! Hair!Massage coconut oil into your scalp and oil your way to healthy hair. It is an excellent conditioner and helps in the regeneration of damaged hair by providing it with the necessary building proteins.